WICU and WSEE Over-the-Air Signal Update

We are currently working to upgrade our signals for both WICU and WSEE.

Many people who watch WICU and WSEE over-the-air with an antenna have reached out with questions about recent changes. Here's what you need to know:

We are currently working to upgrade our signals for both WICU and WSEE. This is a large-scale project that also coincides with recent FCC mandates to move TV signals to new airwaves, which will make more room for wireless networks. It is often called "re-packing." Stations all across the country are going through similar changes, but each station is making the switch at a different date.

As of mid-December, WICU and WSEE are transmitting from a new tower on Peach St. south of Interstate 90 in Summit Township. You may need to adjust or point your antenna in that direction to improve reception.

During the "re-pack" process, WSEE switched frequencies (from channel 16 to 21) on Dec. 12 and started broadcasting with a new, state-of-the-art transmitter. You need to perform a channel scan on your television or converter box to pick up the new signal, which will show up as channel 35.1, 35.2 and 35.3 once detected. If the channel scan does not work, you can try manually entering 21.1, 21.2 or 21.3 into your remote and using the signal meter to adjust your antenna.

Many viewers are reporting issues picking up WICU and WSEE. Both stations are currently broadcasting with a temporary antenna, which is impacting who can pick up the signal. We are still waiting on the permanent antennas, which were ordered months ago, that will provide significantly improved reception. Their arrival has been delayed because there are a limited number of antenna manufacturers, and they have been swamped with work because many television stations are going through similar changes. Once they arrive, we have to wait for clear weather and an available tower crew. Therefore, the permanent antennas may not be installed until late March or April, and many viewers may have reception issues until them. We apologize for the inconvenience; many of these factors are out of our control, but we will get the new antennas installed as soon as we can.

Outdoor antennas are the best for reception, no matter what television station you are watching. If you do not have an outdoor antenna, place your indoor antenna in the highest location possible within your residence, preferably by a window. Some viewers have also found it easier to pick up channels with an amplified antenna.

Remember: Reception varies on a case-by-case basis because there are a lot of factors at play. Terrain, tall buildings, trees and your distance from the broadcast tower affect the ability to pick up television signals with an antenna.